The best traffic-free bike rides around Dam Souš

There are over 50 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Dam Souš, catering to various skill levels. This includes 4 easy routes, 21 moderate routes, and 32 difficult routes, ensuring options for every cyclist looking for a peaceful ride.

The routes around Dam Souš and in the broader Jizera Mountains feature a mix of terrain. You'll find well-paved roads with gentle inclines, such as the "Forest Road Between Smědava Hut and Souš Reservoir", which offers smooth asphalt through beautiful highland forests. Other routes, like sections of the Greenway Jizera Cycle Route, may include quiet roads and some unpaved sections, suitable for cross bikes and road bikes. Expect varied landscapes from open areas to dense woodlands.

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. For an easier ride, consider routes like the Peat Bog Jizera Mountains – Jizerka Settlement loop from přírodní rezervace Bukovec, which is 11.1 km long and classified as easy. The region's focus on tranquil, car-free paths makes it ideal for families seeking a safe and enjoyable cycling experience.

The best time to visit for touring cycling is generally from May to October. During these months, the weather is most favorable, and the road around the Souš dam is typically open to cars, though cyclists can still enjoy the designated no-traffic routes. The changing seasons offer dynamic and visually varied landscapes, from lush green summers to vibrant autumn colors.

The area boasts a range of scenic and interesting spots. You can cycle past the tranquil water reservoir Souš itself, with its calm waters reflecting the surrounding hills. The Jizera Mountains are rich with peculiar landscapes and natural monuments. You might also encounter the Forest Road Between Smědava Hut and Souš Reservoir, known for its beautiful highland forest views. Additionally, the nearby Černá Desná Waterfalls offer another natural attraction worth exploring.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes around Dam Souš are designed as loops, offering convenient circular tours. For example, the Jizerka Settlement – Peat Bog Jizera Mountains loop from přírodní rezervace Bukovec is a moderate 20.8 km circular route that allows you to experience the diverse landscapes without retracing your steps.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 160 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the no-traffic routes, the picturesque natural scenery, and the well-maintained paths that provide a peaceful and immersive cycling experience away from vehicle noise.

Yes, it's important to note that Dam Souš functions as a drinking water reservoir. For this reason, swimming and fishing are forbidden, and the immediate surrounding area is strictly protected. While the road around the dam is open to cars only during the summer season (typically May to October), cyclists should always be aware of and respect these regulations to ensure a safe and respectful visit.

The region around Dam Souš and the Jizera Mountains has public transport options, but specific services for transporting bicycles can vary. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules and their bicycle carriage policies in advance, especially if you plan to bring your bike on public transport to reach the starting points of the routes.

For more information on the wider cycling network, including the Greenway Jizera Cycle Route which encompasses newly built sections of cycle paths and quiet roads, you can visit resources like Visit Czechia. This route guides cyclists through various tourist destinations in the Jizera Mountains.